Understanding the Gender Gap: Dr. Jordan Sudberg Explains Why Women Experience More Neck Pain Than Men

Neck pain is a common complaint worldwide, affecting millions of people across all ages and backgrounds. However, research and clinical experience reveal a striking pattern: women report neck pain more frequently and often more severely than men. According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a pain management specialist, this gender disparity is influenced by a complex mix of biological, psychological, and social factors that deserve closer attention.

“Recognizing why women are disproportionately affected by neck pain is the first step in providing effective, personalized care,” says Dr. Sudberg. “It’s not just about anatomy—there are unique hormonal, lifestyle, and psychosocial elements at play.”

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this gender gap, and how understanding these factors can lead to better pain management strategies for women.

1. Biological and Anatomical Differences

One significant reason women experience more neck pain relates to fundamental biological differences in anatomy and physiology.

Women tend to have:

• Smaller and less robust neck muscles and vertebrae
  
• Increased joint laxity due to hormonal influences
  
• Greater cervical spine mobility, which can sometimes increase susceptibility to strain
  

Dr. Sudberg explains, “The female musculoskeletal system is designed differently, partly due to hormonal cycles such as estrogen fluctuations. Estrogen affects ligaments and muscle tone, potentially making women more prone to soft tissue injuries and instability around the neck.”

Moreover, during pregnancy, hormonal changes loosen ligaments throughout the body, including the neck, which can contribute to discomfort.

2. Hormonal Influences on Pain Perception

Hormones don’t just affect structure—they also influence how pain is processed in the nervous system.

Studies show that women generally have a lower pain threshold and higher pain sensitivity compared to men, especially during certain phases of the menstrual cycle when estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate.

“Pain perception is not purely physical,” says Dr. Jordan Sudberg. “It’s modulated by a complex interaction of hormones and brain chemistry. This means women might feel pain more intensely or for longer durations.”

This heightened sensitivity can make neck pain more noticeable and difficult to manage.

3. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Factors

Women’s lifestyle and daily activities often contribute to neck pain as well. For example, certain repetitive tasks—like carrying children, looking down at smartphones or tablets for extended periods, or performing fine motor tasks—can increase strain on the neck muscles.

Dr. Sudberg notes, “Women often juggle multiple roles that involve both physical and emotional stressors. Carrying a child on one hip, working at a desk with poor posture, or constantly looking down at devices all add cumulative stress on the cervical spine.”

Poor ergonomics at work or home can exacerbate these problems, leading to muscle fatigue and chronic pain.

4. Psychosocial and Emotional Components

Pain is not only physical; it is also influenced by emotional and social contexts. Research indicates that women are more likely to experience chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and migraine, which can involve neck discomfort.

Dr. Sudberg points out, “Women tend to report higher levels of stress and anxiety, both of which amplify pain perception. Emotional stress can lead to increased muscle tension, especially in the neck and shoulders.”

The social expectation for women to manage caregiving roles can add to their mental load, potentially increasing the risk of persistent neck pain.

5. Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

Despite the higher prevalence of neck pain among women, it is often underdiagnosed or inadequately treated. Women’s symptoms may be dismissed or attributed to psychological causes prematurely.

Dr. Jordan Sudberg advocates for a more nuanced approach: “Healthcare providers need to recognize the unique ways neck pain presents in women and tailor treatments accordingly. This includes combining physical therapies with strategies addressing hormonal, ergonomic, and emotional factors.”

6. Effective Management Strategies for Women

Managing neck pain in women requires a comprehensive plan, including:

• Physical therapy focused on strengthening neck muscles and improving posture
  
• Ergonomic adjustments to workstations and daily activities
  
• Stress reduction techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or counseling
  
• Medical evaluation of hormonal influences and potential treatments during menstrual or menopausal phases
  
• Pain management interventions tailored to individual needs
  

Dr. Sudberg emphasizes, “Women deserve personalized care that reflects their unique biology and lifestyle. When treatment addresses all contributing factors, outcomes improve significantly.”

Final Thoughts: Closing the Gap on Neck Pain

Women experience neck pain more frequently and intensely than men, due to a blend of biological, hormonal, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors. By understanding these differences, healthcare providers can offer more effective, empathetic care.

As Dr. Jordan Sudberg notes, “The goal isn’t just to reduce pain—but to improve quality of life. When we recognize and respect the unique challenges women face with neck pain, we take a critical step toward better health and wellness for all.”